photography by Ted Dayton

Custom Firepits Add Value to your Home - and your Life
It's no secret that outdoor living spaces are big pluses in the real estate world. But for those of us who aren't looking to sell our homes, the boost we're looking for isn't with a bottom line, but in quality of life. Your neighbors will tell you that adding outdoor elements, like a built-in firepit, warms more than the body - they can really warm the soul! Impromptu "camp outs" complete with s'mores; a night under the stars with your spouse; family and friends sharing stories on a cool fall night... It's all possible when you make an investment in your relationships by making an investment in your yard!
Available from NV Landscape, Inc. 286-8888

Spend a Little Today, Save a lot Tomorrow
Right now is when you can spend less, save more and gain a lot of value in your home. Kitchens, painting, lighting, windows and coverings, floors and fixtures are all available today at far less than what they would have cost just a few years ago. The return on investment on these types of improvements is as much as 85 percent, and, if you're not in a hurry to sell - even higher.

Home loans are at their lowest in almost 40 years. If you can qualify and you have equity in your home, not only will your rate be lower but you will be able to get money for those home improvements at a low interest rate. What you end up spending on your home today will result in a great return on investment and greater equity once the home market bounces back.

Right now, you can get the best companies to do the work. In this economy, not only are they available, but their prices are much more competitive. Some of the best companies in the SCV, like A.Allbright, Elite Flooring, Preferred Glass and Windows, Brodie Electric, Ceramic Tile Consulting, Shutter World, Homecraft Cabinets, Coming Home Fabrics and Fine Faucets are all are offering specials like $500 for a painter all day, or as much as 35 percent off labor and savings on materials of 10 percent to 25 percent.
Provided by Just SCV's Best www.justscvsbest.com

Finally, a Stylish Outdoor Heater
Designed in Europe, Lava Heaters are one of the mainstays of fashionable outdoor patios. CSA approved, Lava Heat's protective screen remains cool, so it is not a hazard for children or pets. Using real-flame technology, the innovative design creates an attractive visual style that brightens and enriches any setting at any time of day.
Available at Oasis Garden & Patio 255-9909

Let there be Light!
Nothing lifts a neighborhood's communal spirit more than festively-decorated homes. This year, gift neighbors and guests with a lighting display that inspires smiles. Let the pros do the dangerous ladder climbing; just relax and take in the (bright) sights.

Holiday light guru Darell Lee (297-7013) had his work featured on "Monk," "Bedtime Stories," and K-ABC7 News. Lee's popular Santa Clarita-based service, 11 years strong, starts at $350. Fantastic Electric (800-800-3871), an electrical contractor, provides theme, design and layout, as well as artistic set up, professional removal and 24-hour response for burned out bulbs.

Both professionals can line windows, rooftops - even trees and bushes - with the "best and brightest" for a very merry holiday.